Carols by Candlelight Returns with Beloved 34th Annual Holiday Country Concerts, Dec. 8 & 9

by | Events

A spectacular family holiday concert – Carols by Candlelight –

will take place on Friday and Saturday, Dec. 8 & 9 at the California Center for the Arts in Escondido. Now in its 34th year, proceeds from these two concerts will go to Rady Children’s Hospital.

The two nights of Christmas inspired concerts will feature country music stars singing their hits and favorite holiday songs. This year’s headliner is multi-platinum recording artist Deana Carter, making her first Carols by Candlelight headline appearance. Carter has three No. 1 hits, including “Strawberry Wine,” “We Danced Away,” and “How Do I Get There.”

Charlie Worsham, a 2023 CMA Nominee for Musician of The Year, just released a project titled “Compadres” (Oct. 13) featuring collaborations with Dierks Bentley, Luke Combs, Elle King, Kip Moore, and Lainey Wilson. He has also contributed his vocal and instrumental talents with Eric Church, Brandy Clark, Vince Gill, Kacey Musgraves, Hailey Whitters, Marty Stuart, Carrie Underwood, and Keith Urban. He is also making his Carols by Candlelight debut.

Other headliners, and Carols by Candlelight veteran performers, include Anna Vaus, and Steve Vaus (2010 Grammy winner). Anna Vaus returns on the heels of a fall tour with Trousdale and other appearances across the country. Her songs were recently recorded (2023) by Keith Urban and Maddie & Tae. In addition, she was named one of CMT’s “Next Women of Country,” toured with Willie Nelson, Girl Named Tom, and others; she also received the Miranda Lambert Award and ASCAP Award.

Also appearing in this year’s line-up is Back to the Garden, a Woodstock tribute band, recreating the music of the era, featuring the music of the Byrds, the Doors, Crosby Stills Nash and Young, Joni Mitchell, Mamas and the Papas, Carole King, the Eagles, and more.

Following the on-stage performances, to close the evening, the audience and stars meet in the courtyard and sing “Silent Night” by candlelight.

In addition to the live entertainment, the benefit also features a live auction offering autographed guitars and other items, as well as silent auction items and raffle prizes, donated by sponsoring organizations. To learn ways to get involved or become a donor, visit www.carolsbycandlelight.com/our-donors/.

The California Center for the Arts is located at 340 N. Escondido Blvd in Escondido (92025).

For more information, and to buy tickets, visit www.CarolsByCandlelight.com.